The DualShock controller was originally introduced for the original PlayStation console to provide vibration feedback based on whatever was going on in the game. Speeding across an uneven race track? Vibration. Shooting enemies with an automatic weapon? Vibration. For context, this controller is also what introduced the two analog sticks to the controller, giving it its iconic shape.
Now, on the PlayStation 5, the controller has since changed to the DualSense controller, which does far more than just vibrate. Now, haptic feedback and vibrations can give players entirely new ways to experience an otherwise already incredible game. From being able to use the touchpad for specific gameplay to twisting the controller itself to represent balance, these are the top 5 PS5 games with amazing DualSense support.
Astro Bot (2024)
I’d argue that Astro Bot is one of the few games that really took advantage of everything that the DualSense has to offer. Even in just the demo, you’re able to experience the sounds of rushing sand coming through the controller speaker and rumbling of items that Astro crashes into or lands on throughout the game. The best way I can describe the feeling is that of opposite pressure and tension in the button presses when going through the motions.
For example, there is a part where Astro puts on the frog suit and jumps through the level. After using the touchpad to zip up the suit, you can then turn the controller to determine where you’ll jump and then press down on the triggers to go. That way, you are actually feeling and hearing how hard or far you’re jumping, rather than relying on just the gameplay of jumping. It might seem ridiculous, but Astro Bot had me even blowing into my controller for things because I thought it was so much fun.
Ghot of Yotei (2025)
From the very beginning of Ghost of Yotei, players are invited to play using a DualSense controller. Protagonist Atsu has players using the touchpad feature to methodically write out each kanji of the names of her enemies, implementing a direct sense of dread by having players themselves be the ones to physically write out the character’s troubles and reason for being for the rest of the game.
There are also softer uses for the controller, like playing a simplified version of the shamisen in order to start a song. Of course, you can just battle or play the game for the basic haptic feedback of resistance when aiming your bow or when you strike down on an armored enemy. But it’s in the softer moments that really make the controller’s abilities stand out.
Returnal (2021)
Returnal is yet another game that makes excellent use of the haptic feedback within the DualSense triggers. It also makes use of the spatial audio within the controller to add additional effects to basic in-game features such as walking, but it really shines when you’re trying to shoot and aim. It’s one of the few games that made me feel more like I had an actual weapon in my hand rather than a controller.
Weapons all have different firing abilities, and the controller remembers them in physical ways, like stopping trigger presses in specific areas to let you know when to jam it down and shoot. In a way, it gives you real control over how simple mechanics are experienced and how they affect a player’s reaction towards them. In more dire situations, a setup like this might prove more difficult, but force players to learn to calm down and react better.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (2021)
Some gamers truly feel that Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart was made for the DualSense controller. For some players, the game is pretty much unplayable without the haptic feedback implemented into the DualSense specifically. The Ratchet & Clank games have always been known for their odd weapons and platforming levels. So, my giving each weapon different haptics across the controller and sound effects felt as though I was truly using a different weapon both inside and outside the game.
I really loved the idea of using resistance and vibration/sound feedback to evolve an existing effect that hasn’t been used to it’s full potential. Sure, some games include vibration at certain moments, but nothing will feel better than specific audio effects that only go through the controller when experiencing certain situations or vibrations that help shape entire events for even better storytelling.
Cyberpunk 2077 (2020)
Interestingly enough, both the PS5 and PC versions of Cyberpunk 2077 include DualSense haptic feedback if the controller is plugged in. Similar to Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, haptic feedback and vibrations elevate how weapons feel in your hands when you use them against others. Different guns have different trigger pulls and even make different sounds and vibrations when used.
Since you’re able to drive cars around Night City, there are even haptics for changing gears and driving across different terrain to help you feel even more immersed. Grab a fan and make your real-life driving dreams in the future come true.
